CBS Defends Handling of ‘Big Brother’ Controversy

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. (AP) — CBS Corp. President Les Moonves says the “social experiment” that is CBS’ “Big Brother” included appalling behavior this season but the network has responded appropriately.

Some contestants have been caught on the reality show’s 24-hour-a-day Internet feed making boorish and racially insensitive remarks, and some were aired on one of the show’s TV episodes.

Moonves said Monday that the incidents unfortunately reflect how certain Americans feel.

CBS responded with an on-screen disclaimer saying the network didn’t condone or share the contestants’ views.

The executive has a unique connection to the series: His wife, Julie Chen, is the host, and Moonves says he makes a point of watching each episode.